Alicia Ivy M. Bongoyan, MBA
Abstract
The Philosophy of Man explores the nature, purpose, and meaning of human existence. It seeks to answer fundamental questions about who we are, why we exist, and how we ought to live. This reflection examines the search for self-knowledge and authenticity as essential to understanding the human condition. It emphasizes that philosophy is not merely theoretical but personal—an invitation to reflect on one’s life, values, and relationships. By understanding oneself, one discovers one’s role in the greater order of being. The study of man is therefore the study of meaning, existence, and the continual pursuit of truth.
Keywords: Human nature, Self-knowledge, Existence, Freedom, Meaning of life, Philosophy of man
Introduction
Philosophy of Man is the study of
the human person and the meaning of human life. It asks the most profound
questions that shape our existence: Who am I? Why am I here? What is my
purpose? In an age of modern distractions, people often focus on external achievements,
wealth, and recognition, forgetting to reflect on their inner being. The study
of man is a reminder that self-understanding is the foundation of all wisdom.
As the Renaissance philosopher Petrarch said, “Men go to admire the heights of
mountains, the course of rivers, the shores of the ocean, and the orbit of the
stars, and neglect themselves.” This statement calls us back to the essence of
philosophy: the journey within. To philosophize about man is to explore the
mystery of life itself—to confront the questions that define our being and our
purpose. In understanding the human person, we begin to uncover not only what
we are but who we are meant to become.
Understanding the Philosophy of Man
Philosophy of Man does not simply describe human behavior or
biology; it seeks to understand the meaning of being human. It studies the
person as a whole—body, soul, intellect, emotion, and spirit. Science can tell
us how we function, but philosophy seeks to answer why we exist. This
discipline encourages reflection on the uniqueness of humanity. Among all
creatures, only humans can ask questions about existence. We can reflect,
reason, and choose. We are aware not only of the world but also of ourselves. This
self-awareness allows us to shape our destiny. Philosophers like Aristotle
viewed man as a rational being, capable of understanding and moral
decision-making. St. Thomas Aquinas expanded on this, explaining that human
beings participate in divine reason through intellect and free will. Thus, man
is not merely a physical being but also a spiritual one—endowed with conscience
and the ability to seek truth and goodness.
The Search for Meaning and
Self-Knowledge
To philosophize is to embark on a journey toward
self-knowledge. The ancient Greeks placed this principle at the heart of wisdom
with the maxim “Know thyself.” For Socrates, understanding oneself is the first
step toward living a good life. In modern times, people are often lost in the
noise of daily life. We chase comfort, pleasure, or status, forgetting to ask
whether these pursuits bring true fulfillment. The Philosophy of Man reminds us
that authentic happiness comes not from possessions but from purpose. It is in
discovering meaning that one transcends mere existence and begins to live
fully. Psychologist Viktor Frankl, in his book 'Man’s Search for Meaning,'
emphasizes that even in suffering, humans can find purpose. Meaning gives life
direction, hope, and value—reminding us that we are more than our
circumstances.
Human Freedom and Responsibility
Freedom is one of the central themes in the Philosophy of
Man. To be human is to be free, but freedom is not the ability to do whatever
one pleases—it is the power to choose what is right. True freedom involves
moral responsibility. Every decision shapes our character and influences others.
St. Thomas Aquinas taught that authentic freedom is rooted in truth and ordered
toward the good. When freedom is detached from morality, it becomes
destructive; but when guided by virtue, it leads to human flourishing. Through
responsible freedom, humans become co-creators of a just and moral society.
This principle teaches that our actions define us and that we must act in ways
that affirm our dignity and the dignity of others.
Man in Relation to Others and the
World
The human person is not an isolated being but one who exists
in relation to others. We are social by nature, needing community and
communication to flourish. Our identity is formed not only through
introspection but also through encounters with family, friends, and society.
This relationship calls us to empathy and moral responsibility. We discover our
humanity when we recognize it in others. In this sense, love and compassion are
essential expressions of what it means to be human. Moreover, our relationship
with the world reveals our role as stewards of creation. We must care for the
environment, promote justice, and contribute to the common good. Philosophy
challenges us to see others not as competitors or strangers but as fellow
travelers in the search for truth and happiness.
Man and Transcendence: The Search
for God
Beyond the material and social aspects of life, man is a
spiritual being who seeks transcendence. We possess a natural longing for what
is eternal and infinite. This desire reflects our openness to the divine.
Throughout history, philosophy and theology have shown that man’s search for
truth ultimately leads to the search for God. In God, we find the ultimate
source of meaning, purpose, and moral order. Even those who struggle with faith
express this longing through their pursuit of love, justice, and beauty—all of
which point toward the transcendent. To live philosophically is to live with
awareness of this mystery and to orient one’s life toward what is ultimately
good and true. This spiritual dimension affirms that man’s destiny is not
confined to the material world but extends toward eternal fulfillment.
Personal Insight
Through this study, the student realizes that the Philosophy of Man is not just a subject but a mirror of human existence. It invites continuous reflection about life, purpose, and moral responsibility. The student recognizes that every human being carries both reason and emotion, and that true wisdom lies in balancing the two. Understanding the human person means appreciating the dignity that comes with freedom and the accountability that follows every decision. Moreover, the student learns that the search for meaning is a lifelong process—one that grows through experiences, relationships, and faith. Ultimately, the Philosophy of Man teaches the student that to be human is to strive for truth, to choose goodness, and to live with love.
Conclusion
The Philosophy of Man teaches that the greatest journey is
the inward one—the discovery of self and the realization of our purpose in
life. By understanding who we are, we learn how to live meaningfully with
others and with God. It reminds us that philosophy is not confined to books or
theories but is lived in our daily choices and relationships. In knowing
ourselves, we find the wisdom to act with compassion, the courage to seek
truth, and the strength to live authentically. The study of man, therefore, is
not merely academic; it is a path toward a life of reflection, virtue, and
love. Ultimately, the meaning of being human is found in our pursuit of
goodness, our openness to others, and our relationship with the divine.
References
Frankl, V. E. (2006). Man’s Search for Meaning. Beacon Press.
A foundational work exploring humanity’s
search for purpose through meaning, suffering, and personal responsibility.
May, R. (1983). The Discovery of Being: Writings in Existential Psychology. W. W.
Norton & Company.
Sartre, J.-P. (1943). Being and Nothingness. Washington Square
Press.
Tillich, P. (1952). The Courage to Be. Yale University
Press.
Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human Motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–396.
Smith, H. (2017). The Meaning of Life in World Religions.
Philosophy East and West, 67(3),
541–556.
Aristotle. (1999). Nicomachean Ethics. Hackett Publishing.
Aquinas, T. (1981). Summa Theologica. Christian Classics.
Augustine, St. (2008). Confessions. Oxford University Press.
Kierkegaard, S. (1980). The Concept of Anxiety. Princeton
University Press.
Petrarch, F. (2020). Letters on Familiar Matters. Harvard
University Press.
Socrates (as cited in Plato).
(2002). Apology. Hackett Publishing.
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